Navigating Food Labels

Food Label Regulations NLEA, 1990; mandatory labeling, 1994 Regulated by: Food and Drug Administration Food Safety and Inspection Service/USDA http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/lab-gen.html

Food Label Regulations Exempt foods: Plain coffee, tea Most spices Restaurant foods and foods prepared in stores (unless a claim such as “low-fat” is made) Foods in very small packages http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/lab-gen.html

Mandatory Information 1. Statement of identity 2. Net package contents 3. Manufacturer/packer/distributor contact information 4. Ingredient list: descending order by weight Nutrition information: Nutrition Facts panel Allergy information

What’s On Your Food Label? Share the following: Statement of identity Net package contents Manufacturer/packer/distributor contact information Read the ingredient list. Are there food allergens listed?

Nutrition Facts Panel http://www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/ConsumerInformation/ucm078889.htm#twoparts

Information in the Footnote DVs for most nutrients are based on calorie intake. Some DVs are maximums to stay below and some are recommended levels to strive for.

Quick Guide to % Daily Values Based on 2000 calorie diet. 5% DV or less = low 20% DV or more = high Keep in mind the serving size on the label and what YOUR portion (actual amount eaten) is!

Limit These Nutrients Many Americans get TOO MUCH of these nutrients in their daily diet.

Get Enough of These Nutrients Many Americans do NOT get enough of these nutrients in their daily diet.

Nutrient Content Claims Describe the quantity of a nutrient provided: high in, good source of, lean … State nutrient content relative to that in other products: light, less, reduced … Defined by FDA and USDA regulations “Good source of fiber"

Health Claims Link diet or a food component with health Substantial scientific support Emphasize total diet 12 health claims approved by FDA Low-fat diets rich in fiber-containing grain products, fruits, and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer, a disease associated with many factors.

Structure/Function Claims Link substance with effect on body structure or function Can describe effect on “well- being” More likely to find on dietary supplements Does not need FDA approval “ maintains bowel regularity"

Front-of-Package Nutrition Labeling

Consumer Information How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label The Nutrition Facts Panel – Overview The Serving Size Calories (and Calories from Fat) The Nutrients: How Much? Understanding the Footnote (Five sections on Daily Value and %DV) http://www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/ConsumerInformation/ucm078889.htm#twoparts

Any questions?

Slide set developed by: Linda B. Bobroff, Ph.D., RD, LD/N Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences – University of Florida IFAS Extension June 2010